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By the Rev. W. R. WAUGH. 



(Read Feb. 28th, 1901. ) 



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HE astronomical world is much interested we might 

 almost say excited by the somewhat sudden 

 appearance of a new and bright star in the con- 

 stellation Perseus. It is situated near the well- 

 known variable star, Algol, north declination 

 43 34min., and right ascension 3hr. 24min. 25sec., 

 forming the apex of an acute triangle with Alpha 

 Persei and Beta Persei. Its magnitude is about 

 that of an average first magnitude star. Its tint is 

 a steely blue. I estimate it as nearly as lustrous as Procyon. 

 Its spectrum is solar and continuous. It is too early to 

 determine whether bright lines are developed in its spectrum. 

 By whom it was first discovered has not been ascertained, 

 though it is probable that our American brethren will, as 

 usual, be able to claim that honour, their vigilance as observers 

 making it probable. No Novea (as new stars are generally 

 designated) so large and of so striking an appearance has 

 been seen since Tycho Brahe discovered the very bright one 

 in the constellation Cassiopceia in the year 1572. I possess 

 an average knowledge of that part of the stellar heavens, 



